How to Keep Your Skin Hydrated (and Why It’s Important)

Similar to the organs inside our body, our skin requires adequate moisture to function properly. Dry skin can interrupt the skin’s natural processes and cause it to become weak, which can lead to reduced elasticity and an increased risk of splitting, cracking, inflammation, and bleeding. Our skin can become dry due to very cold weather, sun exposure, certain dietary factors, dehydration, and lifestyle choices.

Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent dry skin and keep our skin moisturized and healthy.

  • Use A Moisturizer – Applying a moisturizer to your skin a few minutes after showering or bathing will help your skin absorb lost moisture while your pores are open.
  • Eat Foods Rich In Essential Fatty Acids – By eating foods rich in essential fatty acids like salmon, olive oil, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds, you can help keep your skin healthy and rejuvenated by improving your skin’s hydration levels.
  • Use Warm Water For Bathing and Showering – You could be robbing your skin of the moisture it needs to be healthy and soft by taking baths and showers in very hot water. By simply lowering the temperature of the water, you can help your skin stay hydrated.
  • Turn Down The Air-Conditioner and Furnace – For instance, your air-conditioning could be stealing moisture from your skin to leave it dry, itchy, and irritated. The optimal humidity level that promotes healthy skin is between 30 and 50 percent. If need be, turn down your air conditioner and/or heater to help keep your skin moist and supple.

What are the Differences between Dehydrated Skin and Dry Skin

Dehydrated skin lacks water, whereas dry skin lacks a fair amount of sebum. Dry skin can also be the result of certain medications or diseases. Factors like climate, lifestyle, age and the products you use on your skin can contribute to a change in your skin type.

How To Hydrate Your Skin

  1. Drink an adequate amount of water
  2. Use hydrating skincare products – Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Ceramides, Vitamin B5 etc.
  3. Pamper yourself with face masks/sheets – Incorporating a hydrating face mask into your weekly skincare regimen will keep your skin plump and moist.
  4. Sunscreen is a MUST – Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent UVA and UVB skin damage every time you step out during the day. Sun exposure can dehydrate your skin, causing it to lose moisture and break down its collagen and elastin, which are responsible for its strength and elasticity. This can cause premature signs of ageing.

The two most fundamental steps of nourishing your skin are hydration and moisturization. To keep your skin healthy, young, and wrinkle-free, hydrating it from the inside out is a must. Besides drinking enough water, follow a proper skincare routine, eat water-rich foods, and practice healthy lifestyle habits to enjoy hydrated, healthy skin all year round.